Property Inspection Checklist

This checklist is a general guideline. Depending on the property's type (residential, commercial) and location (urban, rural), additional points may be necessary.

Always refer to local regulations and guidelines for specific requirements. If you're uncertain, consider hiring a professional property inspector to ensure a comprehensive assessment.

1. Landscaping and Gardens:

Check for overgrown vegetation, dead plants, or trees that might pose a risk.

Ensure proper drainage to prevent water pooling.

A well-maintained garden enhances the property's curb appeal while ensuring safety. Overgrown vegetation can harbour pests, and poor drainage could lead to water damage, affecting the property's foundation.

2. Roof and Gutters:

Inspect the roof for missing shingles, cracks, or signs of damage.

Check gutters and downpipes for blockages.

The roof is a property's first line of defence against weather elements. Regular inspection for damages and ensuring the gutters are clear prevents water leakage, prolonging the roof's lifespan.

3. Exterior Walls and Paint:

Look for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of structural damage.

The exterior walls protect against weather elements. Any cracks or peeling paint should be addressed promptly to prevent further deterioration and maintain the property's aesthetic appeal.

4. Windows and Doors:

Check for proper sealing, functioning locks, and any broken glass.

Ensuring that windows and doors are in good working order is crucial for security and energy efficiency. Proper sealing also prevents water infiltration, which could lead to mold and other issues.

5. Driveway and Walkways:

Inspect for cracks, potholes, and any tripping hazards.

A well-maintained driveway and walkways ensure the safety of the tenants and visitors alike, preventing potential liabilities arising from trips and falls.

Interior Inspection:

1. Rooms:

Check walls, ceilings, and floors for any signs of water damage, cracks, or structural issues.

Test light switches, outlets, and fixtures.

Interior walls and ceilings can hide potential issues like water damage or structural problems. Ensuring electrical fixtures are functioning properly is also crucial for safety.

2. Kitchen:

Test all appliances (oven, stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher) if applicable.

Check sink, faucets, and cabinet condition.

A well-functioning kitchen is essential for tenant satisfaction. Ensure all appliances are working correctly and the cabinetry is in good condition.

3. Bathrooms:

Inspect faucets, drains, showers, and toilets for leaks and proper functioning.

Look for mould, mildew, and water damage.

Bathrooms are prone to water damage and mould. Regular inspections can catch small issues before they turn into major problems.

4. Living Areas:

Check for signs of pests (insects, rodents) or damage to furniture.

A comfortable living area is crucial for a pleasant tenant experience. Ensure there are no pest infestations or damages that need addressing.

5. Bedrooms:

Inspect closets, windows, and any built-in storage units.

Ensuring bedrooms are in good condition contributes to tenant satisfaction, which in turn affects your relationship with them and their tenancy duration.

5. Laundry Room:

Ensure the washing machine, dryer, and utility sinks are functioning.

A functional laundry room is a necessity. Ensure all appliances are working correctly to prevent any inconvenience to the tenants.

Utilities:

1. Plumbing:

Test faucets, toilets, showers, and check for leaks or water pressure issues.

Proper plumbing is crucial for a functional household. Regular inspections can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems, saving you money in the long run.

2. Electrical:

Check circuit breakers and electrical panels.


Test light switches and outlets.

Electrical systems need to be in perfect working order to prevent potential hazards. Ensure all electrical components are functioning correctly and safely.

3. Heating and Cooling:

Test air conditioning and heating systems, if applicable.

Ensure the heating and cooling systems are working efficiently to provide a comfortable living environment, which is crucial for tenant satisfaction, especially in extreme weather conditions.

4. Security Systems:

Test alarms, cameras, and intercom systems, if present.

A secure living environment is a top priority for tenants. Ensure all security systems are functioning correctly to provide peace of mind to your tenants.

General:

1. Safety Measures:

Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functional.

Safety measures like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are not only crucial for tenant safety but are also a legal requirement in many regions.

2. Ventilation:

Check for proper ventilation in areas prone to moisture buildup.

Proper ventilation prevents mould growth and maintains a healthy living environment, which is crucial for tenant satisfaction and health.

3. Cleanliness:

Assess overall cleanliness of the property.

A clean property is more attractive to prospective tenants and also creates a pleasant living environment for current tenants.

4. Documentation:

Document any existing damage with photos and notes.

Documenting any existing damage is crucial for reference, especially when it comes to resolving any disputes regarding the security deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Regular property inspections are a hallmark of a responsible landlord, ensuring the upkeep of the property

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